Hot, Cold or Lukewarm Water: What’s Best for Washing Hair?
Ananya Mishra | Wed, 31 Dec 2025
Water temperature plays an important role in hair health, especially during colder months. Using the wrong temperature can lead to dryness, frizz, scalp irritation, or increased hair fall over time. Understanding how hot, cold, and lukewarm water affect the scalp and hair strands helps in choosing the right method for washing hair. A balanced approach can keep hair clean, nourished, and healthy in the long run.
Hair Wash
Image credit : Freepik
Many people wonder whether they should wash their hair with hot water, cold water or warm water especially during winters. There are benefits to understanding the impact of water temperature on hair in order to minimize its damage, dryness and hair loss in the long term.
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Washing hair with hot water can be beneficial for people with an oily scalp.
Hot water can help open up hair cuticles and get rid of dirt and oil.
However, frequently washing hair with very hot water can strip away the natural oils of the scalp and even increase hairfall.
Cold water closes the hair cuticles and traps the moisture and makes the hair seem smoother and shiny. It decreases frizz and keeps the natural oils on the scalp so it is beneficial when one has dry or broken hair.
Cold water can also increase blood circulation in the scalp which can lead to hair growth.
![Hairfall]()
People with sensitive scalps should stay away from hot water as it can cause damage and even eczema to the scalp.
Cold water or lukewarm water can soothe inflammation. It is important to maintain balance when it comes to haircare.
As suggested by experts lukewarm water is usually the best choice for people with all types of hair. It can be even used just for the final rinse. It keeps the scalp clean without stripping away its moisture.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Happens When Hair Is Washed With Hot Water
Hot Water
Image credit : Freepik
Washing hair with hot water can be beneficial for people with an oily scalp.
Hot water can help open up hair cuticles and get rid of dirt and oil.
However, frequently washing hair with very hot water can strip away the natural oils of the scalp and even increase hairfall.
Benefits of Washing Hair With Cold Water
Cold water can also increase blood circulation in the scalp which can lead to hair growth.
Which Is Better for the Scalp?
Hairfall
Image credit : Freepik
People with sensitive scalps should stay away from hot water as it can cause damage and even eczema to the scalp.
Cold water or lukewarm water can soothe inflammation. It is important to maintain balance when it comes to haircare.
The Best Way to Wash Hair for Healthy Results
Unlock insightful tips and inspiration on personal growth, productivity, and well-being. Stay motivated and updated with the latest at My Life XP.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is it bad to wash hair with hot water every day?
Yes, frequent use of hot water can strip natural oils from the scalp, leading to dryness, irritation, and increased hair fall. - What is the best water temperature for washing hair in winter?
Lukewarm water is considered the safest option during winters as it cleans the scalp without causing excessive dryness. - Does cold water really make hair shiny?
Cold water helps close hair cuticles, which can reduce frizz and make hair appear smoother and shinier over time. - Can hot water cause hair thinning?
Regular exposure to very hot water may weaken hair roots by drying out the scalp, which can contribute to hair thinning.
